This line from Gulliver's Travels by Jonathan Swift highlights the pride and privilege that Englishmen had during the time the book was written. The story follows the travels of Lemuel Gulliver, a ship's surgeon, who finds himself in various bizarre and fantastical lands. Through his adventures, Swift satirizes various aspects of English society and politics, including colonialism and imperialism.
"I was at first at a great loss for clothes; but, as I was well-liked by everybody, I was soon supplied with them."
"I was struck with the utmost fear and astonishment, and ran to hide myself in the corn, whence I saw him at the top of the stile, looking back into the next field on the right hand, and heard him call in a voice many degrees louder than a speaking-trumpet."
This excerpt from Gulliver's encounter with the giant farmer in Brobdingnag highlights the theme of perspective. To the farmer, Gulliver is tiny and insignificant, but to Gulliver, the farmer is a massive and terrifying figure. Perspective is important in understanding and navigating different cultures and worldviews, and this concept is explored throughout the book.
"But, in reality, it was for fear of being prosecuted for high-treason, for not daring to assert the known truth, when falsehood and disloyalty were so uppermost."
"Thus much I thought proper to tell you in relation to yourself, and to the trust I reposed in you."
This line from the final part of the book, where Gulliver speaks directly to the reader, emphasizes the importance of trust and honesty. Gulliver has shared his adventures and experiences with the reader, and in this moment, he addresses them directly, thanking them for their attention and trust. This reinforces the idea that trust and integrity are essential for building strong relationships and connections.
